Ability confirms its vision of a strong independent future

Published: 8 Jan 2016

Ability remains committed to a strong future as an independent provider, after the Board reviewed its long-term strategy.

Board Chair Jane Harrison

The Board carried out its review against the backdrop of a social housing sector in turmoil. Housing associations are facing a significant loss of income following recently announced Government plans, together with a new wave of changes to the benefits system. There are currently no plans to exempt supported or sheltered housing.

With almost daily reports of providers deciding to merge and with rumours circulating, the Board of Ability wishes to confirm that it has no plans to take this step.

In a statement issued on 17 December 2015, Board Chair Jane Harrison said: “The board has considered a range of alternative strategic scenarios and unanimously agreed that it is in the best interests of our customers for Ability to remain in business as an independent and viable provider.

“We consider the investment commitments and growth proposals made within our revised business plan to be prudent and within our means and contingencies.”

By 2020, we plan to provide a further 29 homes for our target group – bringing our total stock to 750 units. We will also continue to invest in our existing homes, so that they meet or exceed our enhanced Ability Homes Standard.

We currently provide care and support services to the tune of £4.5m per year. By 2020, we aim to be able to provide flexible, personalised, care and support services to anyone living in our areas of operation who wants to live more independently.